Signal Mountain Happenings

On May 13, 1911, Mary Petrillose Harris was born at home in the town of Ithaca, N.Y. Premature, Mary was only 3 1/2 pounds at birth, and her mother had to keep her tucked in a shoebox with cotton to keep her warm since all the baby clothes were too big. The doctor said that Mary was too little and would not live. Fortunately for her family, she continues to live a long and fruitful life.

Mary married James Richard Harris from North Lexington, N.C. During their 66 years of marriage, they ran a dry cleaning business and dairy farm in New York. They had two daughters, Connie Pitcher and Dixie Billingsley, five grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. After leaving New York, they lived in Florida for 28 years, and then settled into retirement at Alexian Village, where Mary resides today.

Mary continues to live a life of fulfillment. While working as the bookkeeper for both the family businesses, she raised two daughters. She also won awards at state fairs for flower arranging. At age 77, she began painting. She also is a master of quilting and crocheting. When asked what her secret to living so long is, she often answers, “I was always too busy all the time.”

Mary will celebrate her 105th birthday this year with her two daughters and their families at Alexian Village on Signal Mountain, and you’re invited to celebrate with her. Join Mary and her family on Sunday, May 15 from 1-2:30 p.m. at Alexian for a party to honor Mary’s amazing life.